Dear Northfield School District Families:
We have some terrible news to share with you today. Sylvester Huyck, a junior at Northfield High School, died on Friday night.
Sylvester passed away from apparent heart failure as a result of a pre-existing condition.
At this time, we are asking that our school community respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time. A strong network of friends is supporting the family and Sylvester’s closest friends.
This news will affect each of us in different ways. Our support team is meeting on Monday to develop a plan for those who would like to process together and support one another. Even though there is no school on Monday, you can email school counselors or administrators, call them, or stop by the high school. Our team will be ready to support students when they return to classes on Tuesday.
Here is the contact information for our high school counselors:
- Lisa Lipins, llipins@northfieldschools.org 507.663.0638
- Mark Ensrud, mensrud@northfieldschools.org 507.663.0639
- Ryan Turnquist, rturnquist@northfieldschool.org 507.645.1278
- Deborah Rasmussen, drassussen@northfieldschools.org 507.663.0637
Here is the contact information for our high school administrative team:
- Shane Baier, sbaier@northfieldschools.org, 507.663.0630
- Becca Bang, bbang@northfieldschools.org 507.663.0630
- Rico Bohren, rboren@northfieldschools.org 507.663.0630
- John Mahal, jmahal@northfieldschools.org 507.663.0630
We recognize that other district students may be impacted since Sylvester has younger siblings in the district. If your child needs support, please contact the school principal, counselor, or social worker.
This tragedy reminds us about the preciousness of life. Please hold Sylvester, the Huyck-Orr family, and their friends in your hearts.
Sincerely,
Shane Baier
Northfield High School Principal
Matt Hillmann, Ed.D.
Superintendent